The Public Theater, an artistic breeding ground for some of the industry's most influential writers, will continue its endeavors to cultivate new works with the launch of The Emerging Writers Group.

The Public is currently accepting applications for the initiative that will assist and nurture playwrights in the early stages of their careers by providing resources and support. The Emerging Writers Group is the first program in the Public Writers Initiative, which is described as a long-term program providing key support to writers in all stages of their careers.

Public Theater artistic director Oskar Eustis said in a statement, "The Public Theater was founded to give a stage for the full diversity of American voices. The Public Writers Initiative will allow us to provide a home to the writers we believe in, and encourage them to address the great issues of the time."

The Public will select 12-15 emerging writers as part of an open application process to join the Emerging Writers Group for one year. In addition to receiving a $3,000 stipend, the playwrights will participate in a biweekly writers group helmed by the Public's Literary Department and master classes with established playwrights. Participants will also observe or assist playwrights in rehearsal for production at the Public. The Public staff and various successful writers will provide developmental and artistic support. The Emerging Writers will also present their works in at least one reading at The Public. They will receive complimentary tickets to Public performances as well as supplemental stipends for tickets to productions at other theatres.